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OPN September 2008

In the beginning, there was light. Everyone knows that part. But how did we learn to control and use it for ourselves? This history highlights several technologies that have been used to produce light: flame from wood, oil and gas; arc... more>>

Features

Using single-particle fluorescence spectroscopy, scientists are conducting widespread, real-time monitoring of bioaerosols that will deepen their understanding of the effects of airborne particles on human health and climate change. more>>

Scratches on optical components are almost always detrimental. Whether formed during fabrication, cleaning or handling, scratches can cause increased scatter, impaired system performance, and, in the case of optics used in laser applications, laser damage. These “scratch forensic” techniques will help you to identify and prevent common sources of optical scratching. more>>